Segares returns to Fire for second stint

The Chicago Fire have made huge strides in improving their attack in recent days, signing Mexican attacker Nery Castillo and trading for Swedish attacker Freddie Ljungberg. On Friday afternoon, they bolstered the defense, reacquiring Costa Rican left back Gonzalo Segares.

The 27-year-old returns to Toyota Park after spending last season with Cypriot side Apollon Limassol, where he made 12 appearances. Apollon finished 4th in the Cypriot 1st Division last year.

“We are excited to have Gonzalo rejoin the Chicago Fire,” said Fire Technical Director Frank Klopas. “Gonzalo is a dynamic and talented player who will make a great addition to the club. We are very happy to welcome him back to the Chicago Fire family.”

Segares, originally drafted by the Fire in 2005, played 108 matches for the club between 2005 and 2009. He scored eight goals in that time, and was a member of the 2006 US Open Cup-winning side.

Segares will be available as soon as he receives his ITC. The Fire play the New York Red Bulls on Sunday night (9 pm ET, ESPN2).